Leaves are turning orange, pumpkins are appearing and temperatures are dropping. These are all signs of fall as September nears its end. Many are sad over the loss of summer and the forthcoming cold weather. However, unlike the geese, I will not be migrating somewhere warm this winter.
The colder months of fall and winter are long lasting in Northern New York. Many residents of this region are well aware that temperatures will not rise past 60 degrees until next May. For now, we have crisp fall leaves. Eventually we will have freshly fallen snow and the prospect of this frigid weather sounds absolutely delightful.
The summer sunshine may be appealing at first, but the minute your entire body starts to drip in sweat that glorious warmth starts to feel like torture. For those who are sensitive to heat, the rising temperatures of summer can even pose health risks. Medical professionals at the Mayo Clinic say that heat stroke is a dangerous condition.
“Without a quick response to lower body temperature, heatstroke can cause your brain or other vital organs to swell, possibly resulting in permanent damage…heatstroke can be fatal,” according to the Mayo Clinic.
Breezy weather is much more enjoyable for outdoor activities such as sledding, snowboarding, snowshoeing or ice skating. When it is cold one can simply put more clothing on to stay warm, but people can only take so many layers off to cool down.
Speaking of clothing, the fall and winter months offer amazing opportunities for fashion. Cozy sweaters, soft socks and warm boots all make for the perfect cute, yet comfortable, outfit. These layers offer a sense of safety to those who may not love showing off their body. During the hot weather wearing little clothing becomes a necessity, but not everyone feels comfortable in these outfits.
The comfort of winter does not stop at clothing. Winter gives introverts or people with social anxiety an excuse to stay inside. Sometimes the pressure of social activities can be crippling for those struggling with their mental health. When the weather is sunny and bright it can make introverts feel guilty for staying home. Simply having an excuse to stay home without feeling judged can instantly relieve anxiety.
Another activity that can relieve anxiety is celebrating holidays. For some, holidays can cause more stress, but between fall and winter there is usually at least one holiday that gets people excited. Whether you celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, New Years, Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, the colder months are the perfect time to gather with friends and family. Perhaps gathering with others is not your thing, these months are also great for celebrating on your own. Cuddling up with a warm blanket, playing your favorite seasonal music or decorating your house are great ways to get in the holiday spirit all on your own.
Overall, fall and winter are superior seasons for a variety of reasons. Between fun indoor and outdoors activities, holidays and comfortable clothing, there are a multitude of reasons to look forward to this upcoming time of year. Cold weather might not be for everybody, but it is time to show some compassion for us winter-lovers.
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